EcoModule > Specifications

Download Vegetated Roof System specifications as pdf.

If you require a specification to add to your master specification, it is available in Word format by request at support@bioroof.com.

PART 1 – GENERAL

1.1 Section Includes
1.2 Related Sections
1.3 Performance Requirements
1.4 Submittals
1.5 Certificates
1.6 Test Reports
1.7 Quality Assurance
1.8 Pre-Installation Meetings
1.9 Delivery, Storage and Handling
1.10 Environmental Requirements
1.11 Warranty
1.12 Maintenance

PART 2 – PRODUCTS

2.1 Manufacturers
2.2 Materials
2.3 Accessories

PART 3 – EXECUTION

3.1 Examination
3.2 Root Barrier
3.3 Rigid Instulation/Parapet Protection Board
3.4 Vertical Drains
3.5 Pre-vegetated Modules
3.6 Edging
3.7 Inspection Chambers
3.8 Roof Pavers
3.9 Electronic Leak Detection
3.10 Cleaning/Signage
3.11 Reports

SPEC NOTE:  This guide specification is intended for use when specifying a vegetated (or green) roof assembly.  Make any required selections where options are given.  Where selection is indicated with an [OR] statement, select the appropriate statement.  Delete all SPEC NOTES and [OR] statements prior to final printing.

DISCLAIMER:  The manufacturer has reviewed the product information contained in this guide specification.  The information is organized and presented to assist the specification writer working on a construction project to select the appropriate products and save time in writing the project specification Section.  The specification writer is responsible for product selection as well as the use and application of this information, and should contact the manufacturer to ensure all options are available and that the associated specification information is valid and correct.

PART 1 – GENERAL

1. All conditions of the Contract and Division 1 apply to this Section.
2. Additional requirements may be specified in individual Sections of the Specification.

2. Section 03 XX XX – Structural Concrete
3. Section 07 XX XX - Air Vapour Barriers
4. Section 07 XX XX - Roofing
5. Section 16 XX XX - Plumbing
6. Section 11 XX XX - Fall Arrest Systems

1. All vegetation must be verified for compatibility by the growing medium manufacturer prior to acceptance.
   
   SPEC NOTE:  The top reasons cited for specifying a vegetated roof in North America are storm-water retention, cooling and storm-water pollution remediation.  Therefore the vegetated assembly must adequately address those issues in order to address the present and future policies of government building permit requirements.
   
   
2. Plant materials must demonstrate the ability to achieve at least 2°C (35°F) transpirative cooling 150mm (6”) above the surface of the growing medium.
3. The entire vegetated assembly must demonstrate the ability to retain at least 40 L/m²²) of water.  (1 gal./Ft
4. The entire assembly must demonstrate the ability to remediate chlorinated and non-chlorinated hydrocarbons.
5. The entire assembly must demonstrate minimum populations of microorganisms necessary to sustain the vegetation naturally.

2. Submit all available letters or certificates of approval from all manufacturers.
3. Submit names, addresses, and product samples from all manufacturers.
4. Submit letter of compliance with dead load weight restrictions.
5. Submit a letter from the Vegetated Roof System provider that the Contractor/Subcontractor is a certified installer of their systems.
6. Submit testing data to verify the remediation ability of the growing medium and/or vegetation
7. Submit testing data to verify the minimum microbial populations as per a SoilFoodweb certified laboratory.
   
   SPEC NOTE:   Electronic testing is an option.  It may not be compatible with all conventional roofing products.  If retaining, revise to include Project-specific requirements. Insert additional requirements to suit Project.
   
   
8. Electronic Testing: Perform leak testing by an electronic detection process administered by a qualified testing agency.

2. Manufacturer Certificates:  Signed by the Vegetated Roofing System Manufacturer verifying that the installer is approved, authorized or licensed by the manufacturer to install specified products.
3. Installer Certificates:  Signed by the installer verifying they have the specified qualifications described below.

1. Submit test reports as specified in Section 1.4.5 and 1.4.6
2. Product Test Reports:  based on the evaluation of comprehensive tests conducted by an independent testing agency of the specified products.
3. Manufacturer Field Inspection Reports:  manufacturer’s written acceptance of vegetated roofing installation based on regular inspections.

.1  Manufacturer:  qualified manufacturer of vegetative roofing systems for North American applications.

2. All materials involved in the making of the growing medium must be from recycled products and at least 90% must be obtained from sustainable sources. Mined products will not be accepted, i.e. agricultural peat moss, expanded shale, pumice, lava rock, and other similar sourced materials.
3. Plant materials must be native varieties, which are indigenous to the job site area.
4. All plastic and/or composite components shall be produced from 100% post consumer recycled materials.
5. All media must be locally sourced from within an 800 kilometer (500 mile) radius of the project site.

.2  Installer:

2. The Contractor/Subcontractor must have proven experience installing vegetated assemblies of a similar nature.
3. The Contractor/Subcontractor must have trained staff to facilitate the maintenance of the vegetated roof system.
4. The Contractor/Subcontractor must be certified by the manufacturer of the vegetated roof system.
5. All employees of the Contractor/Subcontractor must have Fall Arrest Certificates on their person at all times while working on the roof top.

1. Conduct pre-installation meeting as specified in Section XXXX

.1  Meeting:  prior to commencement of roof installation, review and document methods and procedures related to roof deck and roofing system construction, including:

2. Participants: authorized representatives of the Contractor, [Construction Manager], [Owner], Consultant, Roofing Sub-Contractor, Roofing Manufacturer, Vegetated System Manufacturer, vegetated system installer.
3. Review methods and procedures relating to vegetated roofing assembly, including manufacturer’s written installation instructions.
4. Review construction schedule and confirm availability of products, Sub-Contractor personnel, equipment and facilities.
5. Review roofing membrane type and system for conformance with vegetated assembly criteria.
6. Review structural loading limitations of roof deck and ensure compatibility of the vegetated assembly.
7. Review flashing details, roofing details, drains, penetrations, equipment curbs, and other conditions affecting vegetated system assembly.
8. Review governing regulations, insurance and/or certificates where required.
9. Review safety requirements, including fall arrest measures.
10. Review field quality control procedures.
11. Prior to commencement of work obtain from the [owner] [consultant][roofing contractor] a report certifying the roof is watertight.
12. Prior to commencement of work obtain a structural report from the consultant certifying the dead load weight restrictions for the entire assembly.
13. Prior to commencement of work, ensure coordination with related work specified in other Sections.

1. Deliver and store Products in original packaging with manufacturer’s labels and materials list intact and signed off.
2. Deliver and store Products on roof areas in a manner to prevent overloading the structure and properly secured to prevent movement due to wind or other forces.
3. Store Products in designated areas elevated from the ground and protected from environmental damage.
4. Do not store modules on site to prevent contamination.  Modules should be installed immediately upon delivery to site.

2. Pre-vegetated Modules must not be installed during periods of freezing temperatures, extreme drought or dormancy unless:  a.  Adequate protection is provided.  b. The Contractor/Subcontractor is willing to warrant its survival [to be evaluated by the consultant] at the end of one complete growing season. 
3. Traffic is prohibited on the vegetated assembly during the establishment period.

1. Submit extended warranties in accordance with the General Conditions of the Contract.
2. Installer’s Warranty:  standard two year warranty for all components of the vegetated assembly, including:
   
   .1 Maintenance of the performance parameters as set out in this specification.
   .2 Maintenance of the aesthetic design and good health of all plant material according to their known natural growth habits. Ongoing performance of the various components as one cohesive system. 
   
   
3. Manufacturer’s Extended Warranty: a written guarantee that the manufacturer will replace, at no cost to the Owner, any portion of the green roof which does not perform adequately according to 1.3.2, 1.3.3, 1.3.4, 1.3.5.  The extension will apply only when tied to a maintenance program according to manufacturer’s requirements.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS

1. Manufacturer of Vegetated Roof Assembly having systems approved for use:
   .1            Bioroof^TM Eco-Module; www.bioroof.com, 1 866 377 5177 
   
   
2. Substitution Procedures: Substitution Procedures: Submit requests for alternates to this specification a minimum of fifteen (15) working days prior to tender closing for evaluation in accordance with Section XX XX XX .

1. Submit evidence that alternate materials meet or exceed performance characteristics as set out in this specification.  Submit documentation from an approved independent testing laboratory certifying the performance of the vegetated roof system and its components as per the testing methods cited in Section 2.2.
2. Submit references clearly indicating that the Vegetated Roof Installer has successfully completed projects on an annual basis of similar scope and nature for a minimum of five years.
3. Submit manufacturers’ complete set of standard details for the extensive vegetated roof system
4. Submit a list of 5 projects executed over the past twelve months and any related case studies.

1. Horizontal & Vertical Protection/Air Layer:  Woven polypropylene mat, open weave.
   Mechanical Properties
   Tensile Strength ASTM D 5035 (modified) kN/m (lbs/ft) 3.5 (240) 2.1 (145)
   Thickness ASTM D 5199 mm (in) 19 (0.75)
   Mass/Unit Area ASTM D 5261 g/m2 (oz/yd2) 407 (12.0)
   UV Stability ASTM D G53 / ASTM D 5035 (modified) % strength retained 80
   Performance Properties
   Permissible Velocity       
   Product Only  Flume test1 m/s (ft/s) 6.1 (20)
   30 minute, vegetated  Flume test1 m/s (ft/s) 5.8 (19)
   50 hour, vegetated  Flume test1 m/s (ft/s) 4.2 (14)
   Permissible Shear Stress       
   Product Only  Flume test1 kN/m2 (lbs/ft2) 0.53 (11.2)
   30 minute, vegetated  Flume test1 kN/m² (lbs/ft²) 0.48 (10.0)
   50 hour, vegetated  Flume test1 kN/m² (lbs/ft²) 0.38 (8.0)
   Bio-Void by Bioroof^TM Systems
   
   
2. Root Barrier: Heavy duty re-inforced polyethylene film, 10mil thick, 3 ply laminate with high strength cord grid, UV protected, white;
   Bio-RootStop by Bioroof™ Systems.
   
   

   SPECNOTE:  Remember to eliminate insulation from roofing section (Section 07 XX XX) if protected membrane assembly is used

4. Horizontal Insulation: Use polystyrene extruded foam board conforming to ULC-S701-05 (ASTM C578), Type IV with shiplapped edges.  Thickness as specified and/or as shown on drawings. 
   Weight ASTM D 5261 kg/m²  (psf) 22 (4.5)
   Thermal Resistance ASTM C 518 5 per inch at 24° C  (75° F)
   Compressive Strength ASTM D 1621: kPa (psi) 276 (40)
   Water Absorption ASTM C 272 0.1% average.
   Water Vapor Permeance ASTM E96: 0.6 perm (34 ng/(Pa × s × m²)) - inch avg.Roofmate by Dow Chemical.
   

   SPECNOTE:  If vertical insulation with cementitious board is used, be sure to eliminate vertical flashing from roofing section (Section 07 XX XX)

5. Vertical Insulation: applications along parapet wall use 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) latex modified concrete panel is laminated to Styrofoam closed-cell extruded polystyrene insulation board, ASTM C578, Type VI, 51mm (2”)
   [insert colour choice here] 
   Weight ASTM D 5261 kg/m²  (psf) 22 (4.5)
   Thermal Resistance ASTM C 518 5 per inch at 24° C  (75° F)
   Compressive Strength ASTM D 1621: kPa (psi) 276 (40)
   Water Absorption ASTM C 272 0.1% average.
   Water Vapor Permeance ASTM E96: 0.6 perm (34 ng/(Pa × s × m²)) - inch avg.
   Bio-Shield by Bioroof™ Systems
   
   
6. Pre-vegetated Modules

8. .1 Complete modular unit containing a bio-degradeable vegetation capsule, permanent drainage/water retention layer, and filter cloth barrier.
   .2 Pre-vegetated with Native vegetation indigenous to the local area and capable of performing the functional requirements per 1.3 of this specification.
   .3 Dimensions
            .1 Total exterior dimensions: 22.75” x 22.75” x 8”
            .2 Depth of growing media: 6”

1. Pre-manufactured Lightweight Composite Roof Pavers:  Plastic/Wood composite lumber glued onto 13mm (½”) thick sleepers on 150mm (6”) centres,
   Leachate Regulation 558, Schedule 4 Below Regulation Guidelines for: Organophosphorus (OP) Pesticides, Phenoxy Acid Herbicides, Carbamates Semi Volatile Organic Compounds  (SVOC’s)
   Surface Burning Characteristics CAN/ULC-S102-03 Flame Spread = 145
   Fungal Resistance Test ASTM C1338-96 No Fungal Growth was observed after 28 days of incubation.
   Flexure – 16” Span ASTM D198-02 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 1880.5 Load at 5% Strain (lbf) = 1782.0
   Flexure – 24” Span ASTM D198-05 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 909.3 Load at 2.5% Strain (lbf) = 745.9
   Nail Withdrawal ASTM D6117-97 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 147.4
   Screw Withdrawal ASTM D6117-97 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 348.6
   Izod Impact ASTM D256-05a, Method A 2” x 6” Plank Construction = 137 J/m 4” x 4” Plank Construction = 253 J/m
   UV ASTM G155-04 (2000 Hours) No observed cracking, chipping or change in nominal dimensions and light discoloration.
   Freeze-Thaw C672/C672M-03 (25 Cycles) No scaling was observed.
   Chemical Resistance ASTM D1308-02 No Visual Effect at 10 hours
   Bio-Pads by Bioroof™ Systems.

OR

1. Pre-cast Concrete Pavers: [as specified in Section [07 76 00][_____].] [610 x 610] [___ x ___]  mm size, [50][   ] mm thick; [smooth][diamond][______] pattern; [______] colour [as selected by consultant].

   .1 Paver Pedestals: [as specified in Section [07 76 00][_____].]  [pre-fabricated, adjustable plastic paver pads][site fabricated, approximately 100mm x 100mm size rigid polystyrene pads, 25mm thick; having a minimum compressive strength of 210 KPA.]

2. Vegetated Inspection Chambers (VIC): SST 304 Stainless Steel, 20 Gauge, form bent from solid sheet steel.  Box-shaped with flange and locking lid, 19mm (¾”) drain holes at the base on 100mm (4”) centers.  The height should be 25mm (1”) higher than the finished growing medium height.  The inspection chamber should be sized to fit wider than the entire flange of the drain. 
   Bio-Chamber by Bioroof™ Systems.
   

   SPEC NOTE:  If vertical insulation with cementitious board is used, be sure to eliminate vertical flashing along parapet walls from roofing section (Section 7). 

3. Vertical Insulation: applications along parapet wall use 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) latex modified concrete panel is laminated to Styrofoam closed-cell extruded polystyrene insulation board, ASTM C578, Type VI, 51mm (2”)
   [insert colour choice here] 
   Weight ASTM D 5261 kg/m²  (psf) 22 (4.5)
   Thermal Resistance ASTM C 518 5 per inch at 24° C  (75° F)
   Compressive Strength ASTM D 1621: kPa (psi) 276 (40)
   Water Absorption ASTM C 272 0.1% average.
   Water Vapor Permeance ASTM E96: 0.6 perm (34 ng/(Pa × s × m² )) - inch avg.
   Bio-Shield by Bioroof™ Systems
   

   SPECNOTE: Use edging with bullnose for straight lines use edging without bullnose for curves.

4. Edging:  SST 304 Stainless Steel, 20 Gauge, form-bent from stainless steel sheet

   .1 Straight line installations: Height to suit, L-shaped with a 40mm (11/2”) bullnose top edge, 19mm (¾”) drain holes on 200mm (8”) centers at base and 100mm (4”) flange.  Bio-Edge ”1” by Bioroof^TM Systems.
   .2 Curved installations: Height to suit with folder-over edge, 19mm (¾”) drain holes on 200mm (8”) centers at base and 100mm (4”) flange sliced perpendicular for curves. Bio-Edge “2” by Bioroof^TM Systems.
   .3 Fasteners: Truss Socket Type A, #6 x ½”, Stainless Steel
   .4 Retention Rod (required 2.3.4.1): Plastic/Wood Composite rectangular rod
   Leachate Regulation 558, Schedule 4 Below Regulation Guidelines for: Organophosphorus (OP) Pesticides, Phenoxy Acid Herbicides, Carbamates Semi Volatile Organic Compounds  (SVOC’s)
   Surface Burning Characteristics CAN/ULC-S102-03 Flame Spread = 145
   Fungal Resistance Test ASTM C1338-96 No Fungal Growth was observed after 28 days of incubation.
   Flexure – 16” Span ASTM D198-02 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 1880.5 Load at 5% Strain (lbf) = 1782.0
   Flexure – 24” Span ASTM D198-05 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 909.3 Load at 2.5% Strain (lbf) = 745.9
   Nail Withdrawal ASTM D6117-97 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 147.4
   Screw Withdrawal ASTM D6117-97 Maximum Load (lb/f) = 348.6
   Izod Impact ASTM D256-05a, Method A 2” x 6” Plank Construction = 137 J/m 4” x 4” Plank Construction = 253 J/m
   UV ASTM G155-04 (2000 Hours) No observed cracking, chipping or change in nominal dimensions and light discoloration.
   Freeze-Thaw C672/C672M-03 (25 Cycles) No scaling was observed.
   Chemical Resistance ASTM D1308-02 No Visual Effect at 10 hours

   SPECNOTE:  The decision to use erosion netting is dependent on a number of variables, including, but not limited to, building’s location, orientation, design, height, parapet wall height, vegetation selection, in areas of exceptional wind uplift or where plant establishment could be slow.  Consult with Manufacturer.

5. Erosion netting: 

   .1 HDPE Netting shall be 5 mil knitted with 25mm (1”) holes and tensile strength of 800 kgs./m² (165 lbs./Ft²). 
   To be used in applications where more than 1 year and less than 3 years of erosion control is required.  Bio-Net by Bioroof™ Systems.

   SPECNOTE:  The installation of an irrigation system is dependent on the design of the entire vegetative assembly.  Consult with manufacturer.

6. Drip Irrigation
   [insert irrigation specification here]
   
   SPEC NOTE:  The installation of a leak detection system is recommended for all vegetated roofs.  Some roofing systems may not be compatible.  Consult with manufacturer.
   
   
8. Leak Detection System: Electrical conduction method EFVM (Electric Field Vector Mapping).
   
   
9.  No-Smoking Signs:  Warning signs must contain a prominent NO SMOKING message and contact details for information/inquiries.

PART 3 – EXECUTION

2. Examine surfaces and report any adverse conditions which may negatively impact the appearance or performance of the vegetated roof system.  Do not proceed until unacceptable conditions are corrected.
3. Ensure adequate provisions have been made for loading, unloading, storage, parking and access to roof site.
4. Execute work in accordance with the Specifications, Drawings and Details.
5. Report any imbedded objects or obvious damage to the Consultant.
6. Ensure all equipment is in good working order.  Protect all equipment which comes into contact with the roofing membrane, flashings and related work.
7. .Ensure adequate safety equipment has been obtained for all operations.
   

   SPEC NOTE:  Some conventional roof membranes may require protection or an air layer immediately above the surface of the membrane. All protected membrane assemblies should have the root barrier placed immediately upon the roofing membrane. Consult roofing membrane manufacturer for details.

1. Install root barrier continually over the finished membrane surface, including all vertical surfaces and projections.  Overlap and seal all side and end laps a minimum of 100mm (4”) and allow for root barrier to reach up all verticals 25mm (1”) above the . 

2. For horizontal installations [delete this section if insulation has been installed under the roofing membrane]:
   .1 Insulation is to be loose laid in one layer of specified thickness as per drawings.
   .2 Install insulation over entire roof surface as required on details.
   .3 Cut insulation to fit neatly at projections and terminations.
   .4 Lay insulation in parallel courses with staggered ends.  Do not force into place.
   
   
3.  2 For vertical installations:
   .1 Insulation is to be glued to parapet wall from top of horizontal insulation to top of parapet wall, before cap flashing is installed.
   .2 When gluing insulation, use serpentine pattern and fit edges and corners tightly.       

1. Install Vertical Drains around all roof projections from the top of the Horizontal Insulation to the top of the modular unit.  Join all seams with tie wrap fasteners.

1. Install modules cutting tightly around any projections,drains, etc… working top to bottom and left to right while locking modules together.           

1. Install edging with flange side along maintenance free area and bullnose edge pointing in towards vegetation. 
2. Place directly on [horizontal insulation][roofing membrane][protection layer]
3. Install corner pieces at all 90^o bends and custom cut/weld other angles to fit precisely.
4. For Straight Edging:  Fasten 900mm (3’) wide strip of filter cloth to edging by wrapping into bullnose and installing lock-in retainer rod into bullnose for a tight fit.  Fasten retainer with stainless steel screws.  Trim excess filter cloth and dispose.
   For Curved Edging:  Fasten 900mm (3’) wide strip of filter cloth to edging by sliding filter cloth into folded lip for a tight fit.  Fasten with stainless steel screws through the folded lip.  Trim excess filter cloth and dispose.

1. Install inspection chamber over the drains directly on the [roofing membrane][protection layer], ensure the bottom inner edge of the chamber is outside of the outer edge of the drain flange.  Place felt pads beneath the edges to protect the roofing membrane.
2. Install Vertical Drains around outside of inspection chamber.
3. Install filter fabric over the vertical drains and over the lip of the inspection chamber.  Cut slits in fabric to fit around locking pins and glue to top inside edge.    

2. Place roof pavers over filter cloth, ensuring sleepers are lying perpendicular to the parapet wall and there is a tight fit between the parapet wall and the edging.
   
   [OR]

1. Place concrete pavers on pedestals [spacers] directly over the filter cloth.
2. Ensure pedestals [spacers] are supporting all four corners and create a tight fit between the edging and the parapet wall.
   

   SPEC NOTE:  Installation of Electronic Leak Detection is optional and may not apply in all conditions.

1. After installing membrane and before placing overburden, verify installed membrane is watertight.  Provide testing to verify membrane is free of any holes, open seams and capillary defects that will allow water to pass.
2. Utilize electrical conduction method as follows:
   .1Installation of EFVM impulse conductor wire around perimeter of area to be tested.  The testing agency will determine size and shape of area. The conductor wire will consist of braided polyethylene 1.5 mm (.006”) diameter interwoven with a minimum of nine (9) strands of stainless steel wire.  The conductor wire will have a tensile strength of not less than 80 kgs. (180 lbs.).
   .2  Installation of EFVM isolation conductors around all metal items contacting the membrane to isolate the current flow.
   .3 Wet the test area with potable water sufficiently to create a continuous conducting “plate” above the membrane.
   .4 Attach EFVM impulse generator to conductor wire with removable connectors and to ground or building structure creating a potential circuit. 
   .5 Utilizing an EFVM potentiometer and two test probes placed on the membrane surface to detect the presence of an electrical flow across the surface of the membrane. 
   .6 If there is no flow detected after a systematic search then the certified technician will report the installed membrane in that area tested free of holes, seam and capillary defects and is therefore deemed to be watertight at that time.
   .7 If there flow is detected during the search then the certified technician will triangulate the test probes to identify the source of electricity and therefore the breach in the membrane.  The technician will mark on the waterproofing membrane or surface the exact location of the defect and assign an identification number to each location.
   .8 Any defect(s) located are to be repaired and a retest is to be performed to confirm the integrity of the repair(s)
   .9 The certified technician will provide a report of each day’s test results containing a written description and photograph of all defect(s) located and a schematic CAD drawing indicating location of the EFVM  conductor wire and of any defect(s) located in the testing field to within 25mm (1”) of accuracy.  This report will be made available in hard copy.

1. Upon completion of the Work, gather and dispose all debris.
2.  Clean all surfaces and inspect final assembly for approval.
3.  Affix permanent warning signs at each entry to the green roof area.

2. .1 Maintenance reports must be submitted quarterly to the owner and the System Manufacturer (to maintain warranty). 
3. Maintenance Reports must be signed by an approved representative of the Contractor/Subcontractor.
4. Maintenance Reports must outline the actions carried out as per the maintenance requirements of this specification, as well as dates, personnel at each visit, and notes on growing conditions.
5. Subcontractor not conforming to the above maintenance requirements will be replaced, however, will still be held responsible for the results and costs of the replacement Subcontractor.